Where London slows to walking pace — and the Thames becomes your compass.
The Thames Path (London Section) offers a unique blend of nature, history, and culture — tracing the river’s banks through the heart of the capital. This 79-mile stretch runs from the Thames Barrier in the east to Hampton Court in the west, passing world-famous landmarks, royal parks, riverside pubs, and hidden green spaces along the way.
It’s an ideal trail for self-guided walking holidays, urban ramblers, or slow-paced weekend walkers. With the river always beside you, navigation is simple, and the scenery shifts from maritime industry to regal architecture, wildflower meadows to Georgian lanes.
Distance: 79 miles (127 km)
Start Point: Thames Barrier, Greenwich (East London)
End Point: Hampton Court Palace, Richmond upon Thames (West London)
Time Required: 5 to 7 days (or split into half- or full-day stages)
Waymarking: Acorn symbol (National Trail)
Terrain: Paved paths, riverside promenades, towpaths, park trails
Accessibility: Easy and mostly flat; suitable for all levels of walker
Begin in the east at the Thames Barrier, where tidal waters flow through post-industrial Docklands and maritime Greenwich. From here, the path threads through Rotherhithe, Tower Bridge, and the heart of Central London — offering views of St Paul’s Cathedral, the London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament.
West of Westminster, the trail quietens. Stroll through Battersea Park, past riverside cafés and green embankments toward Putney, Barnes, and Kew Gardens. Here, walkers step into nature — with kingfishers, willows, and long stretches of leafy calm.
Beyond Richmond, the river meanders past Ham House, Twickenham, and Bushy Park, ending in the regal splendour of Hampton Court Palace — a fitting finale for a journey that blends history and water at every turn.
Accommodation is plentiful and varied along the route — from boutique city hotels and historic inns to countryside-style B&Bs in outer London boroughs. Richmond, Kew, and Greenwich all make ideal bases, with transport links and riverside charm.
Many walkers choose to divide the route into day sections, using the Underground and National Rail to return to a single base each evening. Others opt for multi-day walking breaks, staying in different neighbourhoods along the river for a fuller experience.
From hidden gardens and riverside pubs to art galleries and royal residences, the Thames Path (London Section) offers walking holidays with culture, comfort, and ease.
Tour companies offer self-guided walking breaks on the Thames Path — including curated routes, accommodation, luggage transfers, and insider tips on what to see and where to stop.
